David Fish QC, defending Evans, said it was a "sad day" for his client.

"He is aged 23 and has, until now, had a promising career to which he has devoted his whole life since his teens," he said.

"That career has now been lost."

Evans' lawyer added: "Ched Evans is shocked and extremely disappointed with the decision reached today by the jury at Caernarfon Crown Court to convict him of the charge brought against him.

"Mr Evans firmly maintains his innocence in this matter and is being advised regarding an appeal of the decision."

'Resilience and strength'

Evans' club Sheffield United released a statement after the verdict saying it recognised "the seriousness of these events and as such wishes to respond in a responsible way when it has taken sufficient time to consider the matter fully".

A spokesman for the Football Association of Wales said it was aware of the verdict and the "seriousness of the situation" but would not be making any further comment.

Mr McDonald's legal team said in a statement that he had maintained his innocence throughout and was "relieved at his verdict".

"However, he is very upset and disappointed regarding the verdict given to his lifelong friend, Ched Evans, whom he will continue to support in any way possible," it added.

After the verdict, Det Ch Insp Steve Williams, from North Wales Police, said no-one was "above the law" and paid tribute to the victim who had shown a "great deal of resilience and strength in very difficult circumstances".

"I sincerely hope that the guilty verdict will provide some closure on this horrendous ordeal for the victim and that she will be able to rebuild her life which was shattered by the events of May 30 2011," he said.